Webster schools pivot professional development to address AI; 1 Webster learning conference set for Oct. 10

District instructional leaders told the board they have adjusted professional development plans to respond to rapid changes in generative artificial intelligence and to keep teacher training current. Greg Alquist and Aaron Land summarized the district's approach, which includes an AI subcommittee toolkit described as a living document, the use of Google's asynchronous generative AI training for educators, and a train‑the‑trainer model. Nut graf: Officials said the district must be adaptable after platforms and products change quickly; a recent product release prompted staff to pivot from an earlier plan and adopt a Google-focused asynchronous module while continuing to build internal capacity. Alquist and Land described a collaborative approach that emphasizes “humans first” in classroom practice and uses conference learning and peer-led sessions to spread new practices. The district cataloged teacher conference attendance into four categories—foundational literacy, special education and supports, core curriculum/content, and leadership/schoolwide initiatives—and said a professional development policy board provides funding (up to $1,000 per teacher) for conference participation. The district also announced the first "1 Webster Learning Conference," a superintendent's conference day scheduled for Oct. 10. Organizers said the catalog exceeds 140 sessions (reported as 142 at the meeting), offered in three 50-minute slots, and will include district staff, administrators, and community partners as presenters. Session registration is to open two weeks after the meeting at 6 a.m., and leaders warned popular sessions will fill quickly. The board voted to approve the professional development report as presented. Ending: District leaders said they will continue to report back on AI guidance, capacity-building efforts, and outcomes from the Oct. 10 conference.